On the steps of Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, nearly 50 women’s ordination supporters gathered on Pentecost Sunday to witness for gender justice in the Church and the inclusion of women’s voices throughout the synodal process.
The mandate of Pope Francis’ synod is to listen to all voices, especially those most marginalized in the church and society. We take that seriously, and so we gathered as a community to amplify the testimonies of women on the steps of the Cathedral: called to priesthood, called to leadership, calling for radical inclusion. You can watch a recording of the action here.
In that spirit, we sent personal emails to every priest, bishop, and cardinal in Chicago proper, inviting them to also join us and listen to the voices of women. Sadly, the only Cardinal who made an appearance was Cardinal Cartone (“The Cardboard Cardinal”), but he certainly modeled deep listening, never once interrupting!
We at WOC have done the unexpected and hard work of encouraging women to participate in a synod that ultimately ends up largely in the hands and votes of men. Our brothers in Christ continue to be missing in action. Missing on the synodal journey. Missing the opportunities to be pastoral leaders. And missing out on our vibrant, justice-rooted church community, where all are truly welcome and filled with the Holy Spirit.
On Pentecost we are reminded that WE are the church who calls upon the name of God and is healed together as one (in the words of the prophet Joel used for the feast day) – healed to do justice, widen the table of Jesus, and speak a new church into being. Yes and amen!
Check out more photos of our witness on our Facebook page!
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